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Crime Scene Evidence Handling

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Crime Scene Evidence Handling
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Crime Scene Evidence Handling
Melissa Factor
CJ 498 Criminal Justice Capstone
Professor Rachel Goguen
30JUN13
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Abstract
Crime scene yellow tape is a well-known sight. In order to preserve the integrity of the evidence of a crime scene, human contact should be avoided. Crime scenes are immediately sealed off, preventing the public from seeing a gruesome sight as well as preventing anyone, including police officers and other investigators from trampling the crime scene and contaminating the evidence. Criminal prosecutions rely on evidence presented in a court of law so it is vital evidence be correctly collected, well preserved, and uncontaminated evidence for a successful outcome. Using proper techniques is as critically important as it is apprehending the criminal. Without the use of proper techniques, evidence can be lost, overlooked or contaminated and can lead to the evidence being ruled inadmissible. It is imperative the crime scene and crime scene evidence be secured and preserved.

Crime Scene Evidence Handling

Whenever a crime occurs, no matter what the nature of the scene, crime scene evidence is the most important factor the criminal leaves behind. As far as forensic science goes, obtaining physical evidence is the biggest source of the crime scene. For an investigator, it gives insight into the way the crime was committed and is much like recreating the footsteps of the criminal through the clues left behind. Items of physical crime scene evidence are not always visible to the naked eye and may be easily overlooked so a systematic approach to collection and preservation of evidence is essential. The biggest problem that crime scene technicians encounter on the job is crime scene contamination by curious officers, detectives, and supervisors. Widespread trampling of crime scenes



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